HOA Election Guide
Est. reading time: 3 mins
Understanding This Year's Elections
This year, homeowners should receive ballots for two separate elections.
Although both involve the Board of Directors, each serves a different purpose.
Annual (Regular) Election
Click here to view 👉 Mailed Official Notice
Purpose
Elect Directors for the upcoming Board term.
Process
Special Recall Election
Click here to view 👉 Mailed Official Notice
Purpose
Vote on whether current directors should remain in office.
If a recall is successful, homeowners also vote to fill the vacancy.
Process
What is "Quorum?"
In non-legal terms -- "Participation Requirement"
Quorum is the minimum homeowner participation required for an election to proceed.
For Brisa & Palmilla
41 returned ballots required (25% of the Association's voting power).
Key Points
✔ Every returned ballot helps meet quorum.
✔ Quorum measures participation—not popularity.
✔ Once quorum is met, votes are counted according to the election rules.
If Quorum isn't met:
❌ The election cannot be completed at that meeting.
📅 The meeting may be adjourned between 5 and 30 days later.
🗳️ The same quorum requirement still applies.
🏛️ Current directors generally remain in office until successors are elected.
Why Participation Matters:
Returning your ballot helps the Association meet quorum, allowing the election process to move forward.
Participation is an important part of homeowner governance, regardless of which candidates you support.
Frequency Asked Questions
Can I vote in both elections?
Yes. If you receive ballots for both elections, each election is conducted separately.
Does voting in one election count for the other?
No. Each election has its own ballot and its own purpose.
Does quorum mean every candidate needs 25% of the vote?
No.
Quorum measures homeowner participation.
Once quorum is achieved, the election results are determined by the applicable voting rules.
Who counts the ballots?
An independent Inspector of Elections is responsible for receiving and counting ballots in accordance with California law.
If I don't vote, does it count against anyone?
No.
Not returning a ballot is not a vote for or against any candidate.
However, fewer returned ballots make it harder for the Association to reach quorum.
Why are there TWO elections?
The Annual Election fills Board seats whose terms are ending.
The Recall Election asks homeowners whether certain current directors should remain in office.